Skin Cancer in the Elderly

Skin cancer is on the rise among older adults, according to the American Cancer Society. More adults over age 55 than ever before are being diagnosed with melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Experts think that this may be due to the increased use of tanning beds among older generations, or it may even be due to an increased awareness and detection of skin cancer, which means that more cases are being caught.

July is UV Safety Month. Are you informed about the warning signs of skin cancer in the elderly? Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer (affecting more than two million Americans each year), but fortunately, it is also the easiest to cure. The key is finding it and treating it early. Here’s what you should watch for:

Make an appointment with a physician right away. Mentioning that you’re concerned about a skin spot can sometimes help you get an earlier appointment. Don’t delay or hope it will go away: many skin cancers are very simple to treat if caught early. But if skin cancers are allowed to progress, they can result in extensive treatment, disfigurement, and even death.

Have you had an experience with a worrisome spot or mole? Share your story in the comments.

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About the Blog

Founded in 2006, CaringTimes is a resource center for those seeking home care information and support as they care for elderly parents and research senior in home care options. Our mission: to Celebrate, Learn, & Advocate Aging Issues. We highlight available resources and share our expertise during a very difficult and challenging time in many adults’ lives.

DISCLAIMER

The CaringTimes blog pro­vides gen­eral infor­ma­tion and dis­cus­sion to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge about various health-related topics. The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and linked materials within this blog are not intended and should not be interpreted as med­ical advice. If the reader or any other per­son has a med­ical con­cern, he or she should con­sult with a licensed physi­cian or other qualified health care provider. Never forgo pro­fes­sional med­ical advice or delay in seek­ing medical attention because of some­thing you have read on this blog or in any of the linked materials. If you think you may have a med­ical emer­gency, call your doc­tor immediately.

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